Tweaking Your Online Home Search

In today’s digital age, many home buyers are searching the internet instead of newspapers to find a house. But sometimes scouring real estate search engines is kind of like online dating. With an overwhelming number of homes available in major cities, it may seem like too much to handle. Rest assured, there are only a few right for you.

So to cut down on the time in front of the computer, here are a few tips we’ve learned from our very own homebuyers when searching online for homes, and some advice for the neighborhoods you have your eyes on! Instead of beginning your search one websites like Zillow.com, Trulia.com, and Realtor.com, where you’re only entering your zip code, take a moment to think about what exactly you want in a home before your search. (How many bedrooms, baths, square-footage, neighborhood, etc.). Now that you’ve got that squared away…

Narrow down the neighborhood

Sure, you’ve heard the neighborhood is nice. But what’s nice about it? Check out crime rates, commutes, and if you have small children, school quality. Are you close to grocery stores? These things matter. Get an idea of what these homes are going for, too, by looking at “recently sold” and “Pending” homes in the area. Another great way to narrow down the neighborhood is to use tools (Zillow offers this) like custom maps to literally “put a ring on it”.

Refine. Then Refine Again.
So once you’ve narrowed down those bedrooms, baths, price, etc. you need to refine your search even more. Are you only looking for homes with a pool? Foreclosures? New Construction homes? Be sure to refine this criteria before proceeding with your home search. You’ll thank us later.

Is it a buyers or sellers market?
When you are ready to look for a home, choose a realtor. You need to know exactly how much leverage you have. What are homes selling for? Did the sellers from recent sales get what they asked for?

Online Agent Recommendations? We’ll pass…

While search engines are a great places to find a new restaurant you want to try, it’s not the best place when looking for a real estate agent to help you with your home. Just like companies pay to be featured on Google, agents pay to be featured on real estate search engines. It doesn’t hurt to check out online reviews of the agents, it's best to ask friends and family for any recommendations before moving forward. 

For more real estate tips, tricks, and advice, contact Stephen Nissou!

Your Local San Diego Real Estate Expert,



Stephen Nissou
Nissou Realty Group   |   Keller Williams Realty
Office 619-873-2772
Cell 619-250-4541
www.StephenNissou.com
Stephen@StephenNissou.com